Proper cylinder for 629-4 cylinder replacement

Lowes Creek

Member
Joined
Apr 13, 2009
Messages
5
Reaction score
0
I am in the process of replacing a bulged cylinder on a 1994 model 629-4 5".
I called S&W and ordered a replacement.
I attempted to give details as to make and model, but was basically told they knew what I needed and would send it to me.

What I received appears to be the latest incarnation of the cylinder and extractor.
(D shaped extractor shaft,non removable gas shield)
My version has pins to locate the extractor.

Now to the problem,the hammer will not come to full cock.
The cylinder will rotate and align properly in both single and double action.
lockup is tight with me holding the hammer at full cock.
End gap is .005.

Any tips or insight?

Thanks
Lowes Creek
 
Register to hide this ad
I am in the process of replacing a bulged cylinder on a 1994 model 629-4 5".
I called S&W and ordered a replacement.
I attempted to give details as to make and model, but was basically told they knew what I needed and would send it to me.

What I received appears to be the latest incarnation of the cylinder and extractor.
(D shaped extractor shaft,non removable gas shield)
My version has pins to locate the extractor.

Now to the problem,the hammer will not come to full cock.
The cylinder will rotate and align properly in both single and double action.
lockup is tight with me holding the hammer at full cock.
End gap is .005.

Any tips or insight?

Thanks
Lowes Creek
 
The ratchets on the extractor (star) need to be fitted. As delivered, the hand pushes the cylinder into lock-up but can't slide past. Some carefull work with a file is required. Or find a used (old style) cylinder for your model and re-use your old extractor. There's usually just minor endshake adjusting required that way.
 
tomcatt51

Thanks for the response.
I agree with what you are saying.
I guess my problem is I've never seen so much extra metal in the extractor notches.

I've fitted a few CNC era Smiths and never seen a new cylinder like this.

I'm not a professional and wouldn't work on hand fitted era S&W.

Just making sure I am starting with the right cylinder??
Are they all this way now?

Thanks again for the response.

PS
In case I lose my nerve
icon_smile.gif
, doe any one have a recommendation for a professional in the Lufkin Texas area?

Lowes Creek
 
You just discovered "the truth" about revolvers.

Revolvers are very "old school".
Automatic pistols are designed so that most parts can be "dropped in" with little or no fitting.
Revolvers, especially barrels and cylinder assemblies DO NOT "drop in".
These parts are individually had fitted at the factory, and replacement calls for a pistolsmith who is experienced in cylinder fitting and adjustment.
In other words, a new or used cylinder assembly (cylinder AND fitted ejector) have to be carefully fitted and adjusted to operate right.

Many people don't know this and just assume they can install a cylinder and it's off to the range.
They're often shocked when the cylinder won't even close, or the gun doesn't work right.

Cylinders REQUIRE fitting and adjusting for:
Head space.
Barrel/cylinder gap.
Barrel/chamber alignment on all chambers.
Timing.
End shake.

I'm surprised. Things must have changed at S&W. Like most gun companies they used to not sell cylinders for the reason the customer didn't know how to fit them.
 
Ferris

This ain't my first rodeo.
It appears I have not stated my question properly.
The ejector ratchet area of the "new style" cylinder I was sent bears no resemblance to the 629-4 era cylinder.
As I have come to find out S&W no longer sells the old style cylinders and I have not timed the new style.

Before I started fileing, I came her to find out if the new cylinder will even work on the old style gun.

Sorry If I've irritated the "send it to the factory crew", but that ain't the attitude that built this country.

Lowes Creek
 
I would leave the cylinder alone and cut the hand to fit the cylinder. A hand is cheaper to replace than the cylinder. It is your gun and why don't you call one of Brownells Smith's and ask them.
 
Thanks for the response Bullseye Smith.

I wonder if there is a new hand to match the new type cylinder?

I believe I will call Brownells.

Thanks again.

Lowes Creek
 
Back
Top